Shea McGee’s 3 top tips for designing a beautiful bedroom
Starting a room design from scratch can often feel like a challenge – there are just so many decisions to make! However, it’s the bedroom I often find the hardest, as the precarious balance of style, comfort, and relaxation (all whilst staying true to your interior design style) is not always easy to perfect.
Luckily for me, interior designer Shea McGee recently shared her three top tips for designing the ultimate bedroom. Perfect if you’re starting your design from scratch or if you’re giving your room a makeover, Shea explains the most crucial elements to consider when exploring how to design a bedroom
The beauty of Shea’s rules is their flexibility; they can be applied to any bedroom and will ensure it’s well-balanced yet still personal – no matter your style or the size of your space.
1. Select a bed that honors your needs
(Image credit: McGee & Co.)
Starting with the most important piece first, Shea explains how she selects a bed idea according to her client’s needs. ‘When I’m putting together a bedroom look, I typically always start with the bed selection first because I want to get to know my client’s preferences. Do they like a cushion headboard or do they want the grandeur of a canopy bed? I ask a lot of questions about what they’re looking for stylistically and in terms of comfort. This becomes the anchoring focal point to the entire space.’
Acknowledging your needs is of the utmost importance, explains Shea. ‘You’ve got to get to know yourself and what you love. Do you love tufting because you like more of a glam look? Do you like something a little smooth? Do you like the stately look of a high headboard or the contemporary feel of something low?’
‘With my headboard, I have these two tall windows flanking where our bed goes, and so whatever I choose, it’s really important that I get some height in the middle so that it doesn’t feel like this big drop in the focal point between the height of my window and what’s happening between them.’
She adds, ‘I also love an upholstered headboard because, for me, I like to sit up and read, scroll on my phone for a second, do some online shopping. So having an upholstered headboard is a really great start.’
2. Mix and match large furniture pieces
(Image credit: McGee & Co.)
Next, consider the other big pieces in the room. While you might be tempted to go for a matching furniture set, Shea says opting for a contrasting dresser to your nightstand will ensure your scheme feels curated and one-of-a-kind.
Mix and match your bulky pieces, but still ensure there’s one common theme between your bedroom furniture, Shea explains. ‘Once I have chosen my bed, I look at nightstands and dressers. I like to look for some point of connection between the two pieces but differentiate the leg details.’
‘So, in my bedroom, I have our Dana Nightstand and it is an oak construction with a black finish on it and that gave me a real grounding look to either side of my bed to balance out what I have on my dresser which is burlwood. Notice, that I have this piece sitting up on thin legs and this pieces goes all the way to the floor. That allows them to mix and match pretty seamlessly.’
3. Perfect your bedding layers
(Image credit: McGee & Co)
Shea says the most crucial decor idea in a bedroom is bedding. The beauty of bedding is its transitional nature; it can be changed according to each season and makes all the difference to a one-dimensional space in need of texture. ‘The most transformative decor in your bedroom is your bedding. You can change it seasonally to give you different weights and layers and also a different aesthetic.’ A chunky throw can be switched out for a lighter linen blanket in the warmer months, as can a brushed duvet cover for a breathable Egyptian cotton.
Opting for effortless bedding and perfecting the ‘four layers’ will ensure your bedscape is both comfortable and stylish, explains Shea. ‘When I am designing a bed look, I really think in terms of four layers that are sitting flat on the bed. I’m looking at the sheet, I’m looking at a coverlet or quilt, I’m looking at a duvet, and then I am also looking at a bed throw at the end of the bed.’
Shop Shea’s bedroom must-haves
Marinella Oversized Waffle Throw
Textured and warm, this oversized waffle throw is an autumnal staple that will give your bed some rich color and depth. Pair it with some orange velvet pillows and you’ve got an inviting bedscape that’s on trend for the next season.
Bellevue Velvet Pillow Cover
Incorporating a variety of textures will ensure your bed feels well-designed. This soft velvet pillow is a no-brainer, finished in a neutral beige, it’s an easy yet timeless accessory that will pair well with most bedding.
It’s important to understand your needs when it comes to selecting a headboard. Shea says she loves an upholstered style as they’re both stylish and comfortable, much like this heritage Henrietta bed.
Mercer Plaid Duvet Cover (Full/ Queen)
A plaid duvet cover will transform a one dimensional bed into a focal point, no to mention give your bedroom a country charm. Pair the Mercer duvet cover with some colorful pillows for a balanced look.
Shea features the Dana nightstand in her own space. It’s practical yet stylish, balanced by the rattan shelf which gives it a relaxed edge. Always remember to incorporate lighter furniture alongside dark to ensure your scheme feels connected.
You’ll notice Shea scatters several pillow styles on her bed. Pair the Downing pillow cover with some bright hues, like a statement red throw or a set of green pillows for the perfect balance of color and pattern.
By breaking down your bedroom design according to Shea’s three rules, creating your dream space is more than possible. For more beautiful bedroom inspiration, be sure to explore our round-up of the biggest bedroom trends for 2025.
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